International Day of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient Spiritual practice which has benefited mankind immensely. Many yogis have brought the attention of the world towards Yoga. From a long time now, many yoga institutions have been formed and millions of people have taken up the practice on various levels in nearly every country of the world. Appealing to everyone, Yoga has been very popular world over.

The International Yoga Day is a recognition of this ancient spiritual practice. Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji initiated and Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji voiced for implementation of International Yoga Day. Thus, the draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India and endorsed by a record 175 member states. The proposal was introduced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji in his address during the opening of the 69th session of the General Assembly and recognising its universal appeal, on 11th December 2014, the United Nations proclaimed 21st June as International Yoga Day.

Last year, on this same day (i.e. 21st June) the iconic Times Square turned into Yoga Square when about 30,000 yoga enthusiasts joined in with Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji to perform the ancient spiritual practice and celebrate the first UN International Yoga Day.

We all know yoga is the key to happy life, it brings an equilibrium between mind & body and has never been alien to us. It’s a way of our life. We have been doing it since we were a baby! The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “Yuj” which means “to unite or integrate”.

As I sat remembering the last years’ events of International Day of Yoga, the pictures of various countries & people participating in the Yoga day celebrations all over the world, I realised that this event not only brought more awareness about Yoga among people far and wide but also brought together many nationalities together to celebrate the way of life. People, irrespective of country, community, language, gender came together to celebrate The International Day of Yoga!In true sense Yoga united everyone.

Thus this day started a new practice of celebrating Yoga! It has become an occasion where people get together celebrate & be grateful for this age old practice that has been benefiting generations after generations.

On 21st June 2016, second anniversary of the International Yoga Day, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji will inaugurate the International Day of Yoga at the European Parliament. He will be the Chief Guest and lead MEPs and staff through a guided meditation, when for the first time the Parliament’s Yehudi Menuhin Hall will turn into a big Yoga Space. Join us for Live webcast on www.artofliving.org/webcast from 03:45 pm IST onwards.